Florian Wirtz reportedly wants to work with Xabi Alonso at Liverpool next season, instead of Arne Slot.
Wirtz played under Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen and won the Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 campaign. He later joined Liverpool in a £116million deal.
Alonso’s Staff Reportedly Contacting Wirtz
Bayern Space has reported that Sebastián Parrilla, Xabi Alonso’s long-time assistant, has reached out to Florian Wirtz. Parrilla was most recently part of Alonso’s staff in Madrid.
The report claims Parrilla has asked specific questions about life in Liverpool, the dressing room dynamic, the atmosphere around the club, and potential structural or sporting adjustments.
Jeremie Frimpong is also understood to be involved in these exchanges, maintaining direct contact with Xabi Alonso.
Wirtz’s Preference for Alonso
According to the report, Florian Wirtz is increasingly indicating that he would prefer Xabi Alonso to take over at Liverpool. The contact at assistant level, combined with the detail and intent behind the discussions, suggests more than casual communication.
The report suggests that Alonso and his staff are seriously exploring, if not already preparing for, a potential move to Liverpool.
Slot’s Position Under Pressure
Wirtz initially struggled to make an impact and fit in Slot’s system at Liverpool, but has recently been in good form.
Pressure is building on Slot, with Liverpool in danger of missing out on the Premier League top five.
While it is unlikely that Fenway Sports Group (FSG) will sack Slot before the end of the season, discussions will be held on his future thereafter.
Alonso is reportedly the leading candidate to replace Slot should Liverpool decide to make a change.
Reports have already surfaced about Alonso demanding three major signings for Liverpool in the summer of 2026.
The depth and tone of the conversations between Alonso’s staff and Wirtz are reportedly not being interpreted as casual or nostalgic communication, pointing towards a deliberate and coordinated effort.